Texas Drunk Driver Sentenced to 55 Years in Prison
Some of the most devastating personal injury and wrongful death cases I have handed as Fort Worth trial attorney are auto accidents caused by drunk drivers. Alcohol-related car wrecks typically result in catastrophic property damage and life-threatening injuries because the intoxicated driver is nowhere near capable of safe driving. Drunk drivers speed, they get too close to other vehicles and their reaction time is severely impaired. They are among the most dangers drivers on DFW roads. According to the Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT), more than one third of all traffic fatalities in Texas last year were the result of drunk drivers.
Despite constant reminders of how much damage you might cause both to yourself, your loved ones and complete strangers anytime that you get behind the wheel after drinking, people continue to do it. You can’t tell yourself that you’ll be fine, that you won’t cause a crash, that you won’t hurt anyone. If you’re attempting to drive drunk, then there is a very high probability that you will kill someone.
A Texas woman who got in the driver’s seat with a blood alcohol level of .11 percent (above the legal limit of .08 percent) has been sentenced to 55 years in prison by a judge in San Antonio. Valeri Andrews was charged with four counts of murder after running a red light while drunk, killing Maria Aguilar de Perez, her two daughters and her grandson. As harsh a sentence as this might seem, it’s worth noting that Ms. Andrews could have received a life sentence were it not for the fact she had pleaded guilty to the charges, receiving a reduced sentence as a result.
Please think before you drink and drive. It’s never worth it. Ever.
If you or a loved one is hurt in a collision caused by an intoxicated driver, it is important that you consult with a board certified personal injury and wrongful death lawyer who is experienced in handling cases against drunk drivers. For a free consultation on your case, call toll free at 800-354-6275 or locally in Ft. Worth at 817-294-1900.
